Trace Creek Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Trace Creek Dam, also known as Joe Vitale Dam, is a private Earth dam located in Madison, Missouri.


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Summary

Completed in 2001, the dam stands at a height of 34 feet and spans a length of 590 feet. Its primary purpose is for recreation, offering a serene environment for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy various activities.

With a storage capacity of 1080 acre-feet, the dam sits on Trace Creek, a tributary of the Castor River. Despite being privately owned, the dam is not regulated by the state and has a high hazard potential. The condition assessment of the dam is labeled as "Not Rated," indicating a need for further evaluation to ensure its safety and functionality in the face of changing climate patterns.

Although the dam lacks certain regulatory measures and inspections, its location and purpose make it a valuable asset for recreational use. The surrounding area offers a tranquil setting for outdoor enthusiasts and provides an opportunity to appreciate the intersection of water resources and climate dynamics in a natural environment.

Year Completed

2001

Dam Length

590

Dam Height

34

River Or Stream

TRACE CRK. (TRIB. CASTOR RIV

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

60

Drainage Area

2950

Nid Storage

1080

Structural Height

40

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

40
       
Seasonal Comparison

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Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.